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What kind of disability evidence must be shown to the SSA?

On Behalf of | Dec 30, 2015 | Social Security Disability

The holiday season has come and gone for another year. During this time, many Georgia residents spent time with their family and friends and gave thanks for all the joys in their life.

While there is certainly a lot to be thankful for, many Georgia residents also face significant challenges on a daily basis. Those struggling with debilitating injuries and illnesses know this perhaps more than anyone, as a severe illness can not only impact a person’s ability to earn a living, but it can also hamper the individual’s daily activities as well.

Fortunately, Social Security disability benefits for illness may be available for these individuals. For instance, those suffering with blood disease may be entitled to benefits if they satisfy the agency’s requirements.

The Social Security Administration evaluates non-malignant hematological disorders that disrupt the normal development and function of white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets and clotting-factor proteins. The agency also evaluates malignant hematological disorders like lymphoma, leukemia and multiple myeloma.

In order to show an individual has a hematological disorder, the individual must provide certain evidence. This may include a laboratory report of a definitive test that establishes the disorder, which is signed by a physician. Alternatively, a laboratory report that is not signed by a physician can be used if it is accompanied by a report from a physician stating the person has the disorder.

If there is no laboratory report of a definitive test, the agency typically requires a persuasive report from a physician that a diagnosis of a hematological disorder was confirmed by diagnostic methods. The report generally must state that the appropriate laboratory test was conducted, along with the results, or it should explain how the diagnosis was established.

The bottom line is that the agency needs sufficient evidence to support the hematological disorder. By providing the correct evidence, individuals can demonstrate their eligibility for benefits.

Source: Social Security Administration, “Disability evaluation under Social Security,” accessed on Dec. 27, 2015

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